Morgan needs David Wilson

Morgan State University is the leading historically black university in the State of Maryland. As of today, our crisis is outrageous and overwhelming to say the least. We need a strong leader in the person of David Wilson at the helm of Morgan State University. In this case, the Board of Regents are wrong in their decision not to extend his contract ("Morgan State refuses to renew contract of president," Dec. 11).

Please take a look at the facts of Mr. Wilson's record and the tremendous progress he has had in two years. Gov. Martin O'Malley has set a statewide goal that by 2025 at least 55 percent of the state's residents age 25-64 will hold at least one degree credential, either an associate's or bachelors. Morgan State University is crucial to these numbers. Similarly, Mr. Wilson is key to bringing this institution to where we need it to be.

The students believe that Mr. Wilson has inherited issues that have yet to be resolved. He has a robust and comprehensive 10 year strategic plan on the table and needs time to implement it. Since coming here, Mr. Wilson has been engaging, open, transparent and above board with all constituents he's interacted with. His vision for the university has been developed through a shared effort that warrants praise of the highest order. The visibility of the university has increased among the state legislators to a level the university has not seen in the last decade. These key relationships are moving the university forward. Removing him at this point in time will only stall the progress the university has made.

The students recommend that the Board of Regents provide a detailed explanation of their reasoning behind not renewing Mr. Wilson's contract. It is our hope that they will reverse this decision based on the facts. We believe in Morgan State University, and we believe in David Wilson.

Eugene Smith, Baltimore

The writer is a graduate student in higher education at Morgan State University.